Quick hits

MY THOUGHTS: Ice Cube keeps it real in his first album in six years. With his West Coast style and gangsta credibility, Ice Cube speaks out against the vicious cycle that turns young urban youths into thugs. Lyrically, this album is an eye-opener and it gets back to the roots of what N.W.A was all about, but there also are a few club-bangers to keep the beat-lovers happy.

GRADE: A

- Christopher Lyons

'niNe. Magazine'

RELEASED: May 2006

THE FACTS: This magazine's focus is on good character, high self-esteem and strong principles, and niNe. creators say it is dedicated to promoting love, faithfulness, patience peace, self-control, kindness, goodness, gentleness and joy.

Conspicuously spelled (the capitalized letter is meant to direct readers' attention to the inner aspect of the word, symbolizing the concepts of inner beauty and faith in one's self), the magazine includes sections on personal growth, lifestyle, profiles and entertainment. What sets niNe apart in a crowded field of magazines targeting girls (other than its nonprofit status) is its commitment to promote positive images to young females.